What Is Infant Massage? Infant massage consists of using nurturing touch to massage a baby. It is also a helpful way to learn how to read your baby’s cues and understand the unspoken language of the newborn. Why should I massage my infant? There are many reasons why you should massage your new baby. First of all, the sense of touch develops in utero and is one of his/her most developed senses when a child enters the world. This is why babies enjoy being in close contact with their parents, doing skin-to-skin and being held so much. Furthermore, research has shown that the positive, nurturing, and purposeful touch that happens during infant massage, can help foster your baby’s development. Using infant massage routinely, you will also find that you will be able to feel more in-tune and better communicate with your baby, as you pick-up more and more their nonverbal cues. This may increase parenting confidence as you learn to understand and respond to these sometimes subtle cues. Finally, through the unique interaction and nurturing touch that you are giving your child during the practice of Infant Massage, you will be teaching your baby that he/she is loved, cared for, and respected. This rich communication helps to develop even more the attachment and bonding between you and your child! Other benefits may include: • relaxation • promotes healthy digestion • improves sleep patterns • sensory stimulation • relieves gas pain • increases confidence in parenting by learning to understand and respond to infant non-verbal cues Watch this video to learn more about the benefits of Infant Massage! Do you want to learn how to massage your baby? Schedule a class...

Breastfeeding may not be as simple and natural as it’s cut out to be. As I explored in my last post, sometimes it can bring along many unexpected challenges. Being prepared and knowing what type of supports, products, and services are out there will help you navigate with more ease your breastfeeding journey. Here is a list of my 11 breastfeeding essentials: 1. Nursing Pillow – we used the Boppy Pillow and really enjoyed it! Some people tend not to invest in a pillow thinking it will be a short-lived item. Well, let me tell you, it’s not! Besides the countless hours of breastfeeding we also used it as a prop for my daughter as she grew. Either for tummy time, for supported sitting, or simply just to play with… my 20 month-old can still be found using her Boppy at one time or another. As it pertains to breastfeeding itself, I found it extremely useful for the long nursing sessions that tend to happen in the first months of breastfeeding. Holding your child in the same position for 30 minutes to 1 hour can take it’s toll. 2. Nipple Cream – everyone knows that nipples can become cracked in the beginning of breastfeeding. Lanolin creams can definitly help alleviate the discomfort. However, sometimes, it goes beyond normal discomfort and you should know that there are other options. Ask your doctor or midwife about prescription APNO cream and if it’s indicated for you. In my case, this made a huge difference. It truly helped the healing process of nipples that were already beyond cracked. 3. Nipple Shield – it is not...

For a week we partnered with NüRoo to share information on the benefits of skin-to-skin contact. We gave our followers a chance to enter and win the wonderful NüRoo Pocket. Thanks to everyone who entered! And the winner is… KRISTEN VISSER! Please e-mail me at info@thelovingnest.com with your mailing address and size and color preferences so we can ship you your prize! The Pocket is available in 3/4 sleeve (Black or Teal) or Short Sleeve (Black), sized XS – XL. If we don’t hear from the winner within 4 business days, another winner will be announced. To all others who would have loved a chance to win, don’t miss out on a special 20% discount just for The Loving Nest’s followers! Use code LOVENEST at checkout from now until May 31st. Thanks, once again, to NüRoo for being such amazing partners and giving us the chance to learn more about their products and spread the word on the importance of Kangaroo Care and skin-to-skin contact!...